Met. Longin Appeals for Release of Detained Adopted Son

Met. Longin comforts one of his adopted daughters. Photo: pravlife.org

CHERNIVTSI, UKRAINE — On December 7, 2025, Met. Longin of Bancheny reported that his adopted son, Zhar Zoria Mykhailovych, had been detained the previous day by representatives of the Territorial Recruitment Center (TRC). The announcement was shared on the Bancheny Monastery’s official Facebook page.

The metropolitan stated that his son, an orphan, is the primary caretaker of several children who will be left without support if he remains in custody. Met. Longin urged the public to assist in securing his release, writing, “Please, help free my son.”

He also noted the personal hardship he has endured, recalling that he has already buried two sons and received no state assistance. In addition, he said he is currently undergoing medical treatment and raising four children with war-related disabilities.

Met. Longin emphasized his intention to pursue every legal and public avenue to obtain his son’s freedom. Earlier this week, hundreds of faithful visited Bancheny Monastery to congratulate the metropolitan on his name day.

Previously, UOJ reported that UOC Archpriest Serhii Saviievskyi was detained by the TRC and sent to a military training ground. 

Read also

Lexington ROCOR Parish Seeks Support to Purchase and Restore New Church Building

Mission parish seeks donations to acquire a historic Winchester church as a permanent home for Orthodox worship.

Hellenic College Holy Cross Alumnus Returns to Present Memoir of Alaskan Pilgrimage

Alumnus Anthony Linderman returned to HCHC to share his memoir recounting a spiritually transformative year on Alaska’s Spruce Island.

Antiochian Archdiocese to Host 2026 Winter Sacred Music Institute for Church Musicians in Phoenix

The Winter Sacred Music Institute in Phoenix will gather church musicians for education, worship, and fellowship focused on Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday hymns.

Finnish Orthodox Leader in Ongoing Talks with Security Agency Over Perceived Russian Threats

Finnish Abp. Elia says the Ukraine war has split his Church and prompted ongoing cooperation with national security services to guard against suspected Russian influence.

Last Synod Meeting of 2025 Opens at ROCOR First Hierarch's Residence

Met. Nicholas and Synod members gather in New York on feast of St. Innocent.

Met. Longin Appeals for Release of Detained Adopted Son

The Ukrainian hierarch, while speaking about his adopted son, stressed his family's hardships and the children who depend on him.